Hiking the Grand Canyon is one of the most incredible experiences imaginable and the memories will last you a life time! Whether you are planning to take the most popular route - Bright Angel Trail > Havasupai Gardens > Bright Angel Campground, or the steeper Kaibab Trail or accomplish a Rim to Rim Hike, we think you will find this information very useful!To prepare for Grand Canyon hiking,
Plan your trip to avoid the hottest part of the day (10 am–4 pm) by starting early or hiking in the evening, and bring plenty of water (at least a half-liter per hour) and salty snacks to stay hydrated and prevent hyponatremia. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing and sturdy shoes, carry a first-aid kit, and check the weather before you go.
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Planning and preparation
- Train Train Train: Try to do long hikes and when possble, do some long walks and hikes with some pack weight on. Running, long walks, climbing or going down hills, mountains, or bleachers and weight training will all help. The more you train ahead of time, the more enjoyable your adventure will be!
- Check the weather: Conditions can change, especially with elevation. Be wary of extreme heat and sun; many underestimate this!
- Know your limits: Plan hikes that are within your physical abilities, and be aware that going down is optional, but coming back up is mandatory.
- Research your route: Check the trail map, mileage, and elevation gain before you go.
- Make it easy (*Bright Angel Trail Currently Closed Past Havasupai Gardens: Must Take Tonto Trail > South Kaibab > Bright Angel Campground Currently): You can make this hike easier by planning a 3 night option -
- Night One: Hike Bright Angel Trail & Camp at Havasupai Gardens Night 2: Camp at the Bright Angel Campground. Night 3 - Camp at Havasupai Gardens to make the hike out much easier.
- Inform others: Let someone know your travel plans, especially if you are going on a longer or more remote hike.
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Phantom Ranch: my favorite hack when staying at Bright Angel Campground is to order the 'meals only' option from Phantom Ranch. It is just a short walk from the campsite up Bright Angel Creek, and they serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner (best beef stew on the planet!). Not only does this option save pack weight, it is also delicious. Here's the link for Phantom Ranch Meals:
https://www.grandcanyonlodges.com/dine/phantom-ranch-canteen/
- Forgot essentials or snacks? Don't sweat it as there are lots of items available at the Phantom Ranch Canteen such as Trekking poles. microspikes, rain panchos, batteries, headlamps, medicine, snacks, and lemonade (keep the cup for $1 refills!).
What to wear
- Light, loose clothing: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing to stay cool.
- Sun protection: Use a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Sturdy footwear: Wear good, broken-in hiking shoes or boots.
- Layer your clothing: Bring layers you can add or remove as the temperature changes throughout the day.
What to pack
- Water: Bring at least a half-liter of water per hour and more than you think you will need. There are sources to refill your water bottles at Havasupai Gardens / Bright Angel Campground / Phantom ranch
- Salty snacks: Balance your water intake with salty foods to avoid hyponatremia.
- First-aid kit: Pack a well-stocked first-aid kit: Moleskin for Blisters is a MUST
- Other essentials: Consider a headlamp (for early/late hiking), a map, and a fully charged phone, and remember, keeping your phone in Airplane Mode saves battery life.
During your hike
- Hydrate constantly: Drink water and electrolyte fluids regularly.
- Eat often: Consume plenty of salty snacks and high-energy foods to maintain your energy and balance electrolytes.
- Avoid midday heat: Do not hike between 10 am and 4 pm during warmer months. Pro Tip: Rest in the shade during the hottest hours.
- Know heat illness symptoms: Be aware of signs like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and cramping. If you experience these, rest, get wet, hydrate, and eat salty snacks.
- Be storm-aware: Watch for signs of thunderstorms and be aware of falling rocks and flash floods.
• • Protect yourself from lightning: Stay away from edges, promontories, and individual trees during a storm.
